City Limits

The enclave of Atherton is regularly ranked as the most expensive zip code in the United States, with the highest per capita income among U.S. small towns. In the 1800s, Atherton was known as Fair Oaks, and was a flag stop on the California Coast for the Southern Pacific Railroad between San Francisco and San José.

Native live oaks, white oaks, bays, redwoods, cedars, pines, and other ornamental trees still cover the six square miles of town, which is predominantly residential. This includes tracts of contemporary Eichler homes, most notably in the Lindenwood neighborhood on the northeast side. Atherton is also home to the Menlo Circus Club, a private club with tennis, swimming, horse stables, and a riding ring.

Atherton By the Numbers

#FairOaks

In 1923, Menlo Park wanted to incorporate its lands to include Fair Oaks (Atherton), which wanted to remain independent. Both groups rushed to Sacramento to make their case to the legislature, and the Fair Oaks committee arrived first — though they weren’t the first to claim their name. So the town incorporated as Atherton on Sept. 12, 1923.

#MostExpensivest

For the third year in a row, Atherton has been named the most expensive town in the United States. Its multi-million dollar estates attract a steady cohort of rich and famous neighbors, including Stephen Curry, Jerry Rice, Sheryl Sandberg, Meg Whitman, and Eric Schmidt.

WHERE TO GO: Chic’s Picks

Bear Gulch Reservoir – With a capacity of 166 million gallons, Bear Gulch is a local gem hiding in plain sight. About 20% of the tap water in Menlo Park, Atherton, Portola Valley, and Woodside comes from Bear Gulch, with the other 80% from Hetch Hetchy in the Sierras. Locals enjoy fishing and boating on the relatively calm waters. Learn more

Holbrook-Palmer Park – The only public recreation site in the town limits, this municipally-owned, 22-acre garden setting features indoor and outdoor facilities, including a ball field, tennis courts, playground, gardens, and walking paths. Ms. Olive Holbrook-Palmer left the park to the town in 1958. Learn more

WHERE TO EAT, DRINK & HANG

Telefèric Barcelona – A purveyor of authentic Spanish tapas and pintxos served dim sum style, the origins of Telefèric lie in the Basque Country of Spain, a world of art and culture, delicate palates, and deep affection for exquisite cuisine. This small, warm space has introduced an innovative style to the Peninsula. Learn more

The Refuge – On his show Diners, Drive-ins & Dives, local gastronomical guru Guy Fieri said, “You could be a hardcore New Yorker [and] nothing is gonna prepare you for that (pastrami).” The Refuge specializes in hand-carved, ultra tender, boldly flavored navel pastrami but also boasts the world’s best Belgian and craft beer on tap. Learn more

Oak & Violet – Located in the luxurious Park James Hotel in nearby Menlo Park, Oak + Violet is helmed by executive chef Mike Gadd and celebrates quality with locally-sourced, hand-picked ingredients. The main menu has a simple focus on Californian cuisine. Whatever you choose, Oak + Violet will always bring passion to your plate. Learn more

LOCAL SCHOOLS